City players help launch community schemes

Edin Dzeko, Scott Sinclair and Matija Nastasic helped launch a range of new City in the Community (CITC) programmes at The Factory Youth Zone.

Toure brothers Yaya and Kolo officially opened TFYZ, which is only minutes from the Etihad Stadium in Harpurhey, in February 2012.

The venue is a £5m state-of-the-art facility which provides sports, dance, music, media and arts activities for young people.

As well as welcoming the players, the charity also opened its doors to hundreds of visitors from the community as it hosted a special open day.

Activities included, painting, gymnastics, skateboarding – and for the avid City fans there was an opportunity to have their photo taken with the Premier League and Community Shield trophies.

CITC will deliver a range of programmes for local young people from The Factory Youth Zone, developing the partnership that began in the 2011/12 Premier League season.

These new projects involve a variety of activities including football, dance and basketball every Wednesday, Friday and Saturday evening and are free of charge.

The three Manchester City players who visited The Factory Youth Zone took part in golf, basketball and football challenges with a group of young people before using their artistic talents on the wall mural at the centre.

“The Factory Youth Zone was named as MCFC’s East Manchester partner charity just over a year ago, “ said Mike Green, Head of CITC Delivery.

“I’m delighted that CITC has been able to develop this relationship to give more opportunities to young people in our local area.

“This partnership is further evidence to support MCFC’s commitment to our Manchester community.”

Kate Vokes, Chair of The Factory Youth Zone, said: “As a charity we rely on the generosity of individuals and businesses so we are delighted that the City in the Community Foundation has chosen to support The Factory Youth Zone.

“The Factory is a place where young people aged 8-21 are supported to fulfil their potential and make positive choices so they can lead happy, healthy lives, and the partnership with City will help us achieve this ambition.”